Pent-up demand expected to spike sales for redesigned GM SUVs

With consumers waiting eight years for the next redesign of General Motors’ SUVs -- Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL – the carmaker is expecting pent-up demand for the 2015 models. The expectation comes even though the redesigned SUVs carry sticker prices that are around $2,500 higher for a popular Tahoe model to almost $7,000 more for a Yukon Denali XL.

The SUVs, which started arriving in dealerships in February, boast of clean, contemporary designs as well as a more powerful yet more fuel efficient powertrain. They also boast of an enhanced interior sans key complaints about the outgoing generation. The SUVs are underpinned by the same platform that underpins GM's recently redesigned pickups, but don't share any sheet metal, allowing for more design flexibility.

For instance, the body sides on the Yukons are more sculpted and have a higher beltline, giving them a "clean, classic" profile, according to lead exterior designer Chip Thole. The Chevrolets are now more distinguishable from the GMCs, thanks to unique front and rear fascias, and aluminum hoods and liftgates. For instance, the Yukon sports C-shaped headlights with high-intensity discharge lamps, and a similar look for the taillights.

On the other hand, fascia of the Tahoe and Suburban seems more contemporary, thanks to its new headlights and deeper dual-port grille.

The SUVs can also be availed with any of two of the new V-8 engines that debuted on GM pickups -- a 5.3-liter that provides up to 355 hp of output and 383 pounds-feet of torque. The upscale Denali versions of the Yukon and Yukon XL are powered by 6.2-liter engine as standard, providing 420 hp of output and 460 pounds-feet of torque.